Magnifying the Royce Gale Miniature Book Collection

Kristen Howard, historian and librarian, gives us tiny looks at tiny books. Miniature books – books measuring less than 3” in length or width – have fascinated collectors for hundreds of years. This enduring fascination is in part due to their beauty, the challenges of their production, and their sheer curiosity value.

The Royce Gale Collection at McGill is particularly strong in miniature 20th-century fine artists’ books, typically in extremely small print runs. There is an emphasis on works created by Ann and David Bromer (Bromer Books), Norman W. Forgue (Black Cat Press Books), and Robert E. Massman (REM Books), all leaders in the production of miniature books. Miniatures, though appreciated for their minute stature, are best appreciated when magnified!

Opening comments - Jacquelyn Sundberg, ROAAr McGill Library
3:03 - Comments - Nathalie Cooke, AD ROAAR, McGill Library
8:35 - Collection Comments - Christopher Lyons, Head, Rare books and Special Collections, McGill Library
14:00 - Presentation - Kristen Howard, Liaison Librarian McGill Library
42:00 - Q and A